IndustryThe Ten: The divisive debate over Clear CooperationConcerns about the policy aren’t new. But with NAR reeling and the DOJ looming, they’ve taken on a new, more contentious tone.Amie FisherDecember 26, 2024
By the NumbersMortgage rates at highest point since July despite cuts“Buyers and sellers are gradually returning” but inventory could take a hit if homeowners stay locked in to their lower rates, experts say. Dave GallagherDecember 26, 2024
TecheXp sells off Virbela, but it’s not quitting the metaverseThe tech-forward brokerage is doubling down on a simpler way for agents to access virtual worlds. Said Glenn Sanford: “I’m proud to have had eXp fund” FrameVR.Stephanie Reid-SimonsDecember 26, 2024
MLS/AssnNAR moves to revoke Phoenix Realtors charterIn an email to leaders, the association said PAR’s refusal to stop offering its MLS Choice option leaves NAR “no choice” but to defend its trademark and model.Stephanie Reid-SimonsUpdated January 3, 2025
IndustryThe Ten: The outsider who took on forms — and then NARWhen law professor Tanya Monestier started looking into buyer agreements, she never expected to become a leading voice in NAR’s biggest battle.Dave GallagherDecember 24, 2024
MLS/AssnPhoenix Realtors fires back at NAR over MLS Choice programThe National Association of Realtors says MLS Choice allows non-Realtors to join the Phoenix association. PAR says NAR “threats” will chill innovation.Stephanie Reid-SimonsDecember 23, 2024
AgentsHow to help buyers understand appraisals and inspectionsThese evaluations have the potential to make or break a transaction, and many buyers will have questions about what’s involved — and what’s at stake.Amie FisherDecember 23, 2024
BrokeragesTrends 2025: Franchise giants, rising brokerage brands to watchWell-known franchise brands have proven their staying power, but more brokerage brands are scaling up nationally, capturing agent and consumer attention.Real Estate News StaffDecember 23, 2024
MLS/AssnThe Ten: NAR ready to reclaim narrative after bumpy yearThe association made a deal to end commissions cases while facing leadership shifts, intense attention from the DOJ — and media — and "rumblings" of discontent.Stephanie Reid-SimonsDecember 21, 2024
BrokeragesBrokerage Beat: News from KW, eXp, United, Real, RE/MAX, moreAgents and teams are making late-year moves, and firms are expanding through M&As. Plus, Anywhere brand franchises announce 5 new offices or affiliations.Real Estate News StaffDecember 21, 2024
Brokerages'Unfiltered': RE/MAX CEO on being ‘the best in real estate’Watch the conversation with Erik Carlson on taking the helm during a time of “chaos,” why culture is key, and how RE/MAX is like… the Dallas Cowboys?Amie FisherDecember 20, 2024
By the NumbersHousing market looking less attractive to investorsBut there is still competition for homes, especially at lower price points, where first-time buyers cross paths with buyers on the investment side.Dave GallagherDecember 20, 2024
AgentsAgents expect more sales, (much) lower rates in 2025Two recent surveys of agent sentiment conveyed a general sense of optimism heading into the new year, though mortgage rate expectations may not match reality.AJ LaTraceDecember 20, 2024
BrokeragesThe Ten: Real’s dynamic president, and the firm’s stellar yearAs other brokerages stumbled in 2024, Real saw enviable growth in agent count, transactions and share price — with President Sharran Srivatsaa setting the tone.AJ LaTraceDecember 19, 2024
By the NumbersHome sales rally — but that may not last as rates riseExisting home sales rebounded in November, pushing annual sales past the 4 million mark. A big jump in mortgage rates may quash momentum, however.Dave GallagherDecember 19, 2024
MLS/AssnNAR hits Phoenix Realtors with cease-and-desist over MLS ChoiceThe option lets brokers access the MLS outside the “traditional three-tier membership system.” NAR says it is “maintaining standards for the Realtor brand.”Stephanie Reid-SimonsUpdated December 19, 2024
By the NumbersFed cuts rates, but resets expectations for 2025Look for just two cuts next year — half the number previously forecast — as the Federal Reserve predicts inflation will remain high.Dave GallagherDecember 18, 2024
BrokeragesRE/MAX launches media network to boost ad revenueThe platform will connect advertisers with RE/MAX consumers at “key moments,” providing a new revenue stream as the brand works to improve its bottom line.Dave GallagherDecember 18, 2024
IndustryREBNY sues over new commission rules for NYC brokersThe Real Estate Board of New York told a federal court that rules limiting how agents are paid will make it harder for renters to find apartments.Stephanie Reid-SimonsDecember 18, 2024
IndustryWhy trigger leads are a threat to the mortgage industryThe U.S. Senate just passed a bill to prevent solicitors from bombarding borrowers with unwanted calls or texts. It's now up to the House to make it law.Coby HakalirUpdated December 18, 2024